Patek Philippe Nautilus

Overall Condition: Excellent condition overall. Case and bracelet shows light wear and signs of only light polishing. Dial show even patination throughout. Handset and indices are in great condition.

The Nautilus is without question one of the great horological icons of the 1970s, and one of the most in-demand timepiece models on the planet.

Collectors and prospectors alike are clamoring to get their hands on Genta's second great luxury sports watch, and with the recent news of the discontinuation of the flagship reference 5711 in steel, this dramatic rise in popularity shows no signs of slowing down.

Interestingly, most demand for Nautilus models is centered around Jumbo models in steel, something we can't fully wrap our heads around...

This midsize Nautilus, a Reference 3800/1J, embodies all of the porthole-inspired character of its larger siblings, just with a slightly smaller 37mm case, and a perhaps more polarizing metal color in yellow gold. Dating to circa the 1980s, it features a matching integrated yellow gold bracelet, a signed crown, a gorgeous, blue 'teak' dial with applied Tritium-filled indices and a matching handset, and Patek's Calibre 335SC automatic movement inside.

These midsize iterations sit so flush on the wrist, with a dress watch like comfort on the wrist thanks to its more compact presence. Here, the design and material do the speaking for the watch, while the case size does wonders to make the piece a bit more tasteful and reserved in spite of its flash. The result is a complete and utter classic.

The Nautilus has become a true piece of horological history; an icon of icons; and must be experienced to be understood!